Minestrone soup is a hearty, nourishing dish that has roots in Italian cuisine. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a complete meal in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a warm dish on a chilly day or a healthy option any time of the year, this soup is a perfect choice.
Why Make This Recipe
Making minestrone soup at home is both simple and rewarding. It’s versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more nutrition into your meals. This recipe easily serves a crowd and also makes for fantastic leftovers. Enjoy it as a lunch option or a comforting dinner.
How to Make Minestrone Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, green beans, oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until all vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. Serve it in deep bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad to make a complete meal.
How to Store Minestrone Soup
To store minestrone soup, let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating for best results.
Tips to Make Minestrone Soup
- Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- For a heartier soup, you can add small pasta like ditalini.
- If you want a richer flavor, sauté the vegetables a little longer until they start to caramelize.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright flavor.
Variation
You can easily customize this minestrone recipe. Try adding different beans like kidney or black beans, or throw in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is perfect for making a vegetarian version of minestrone soup.
2. How long does it take to make minestrone soup?
The total time to make minestrone soup is about 35-40 minutes, including prep and cooking.
3. Can I make minestrone soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Enjoy your homemade minestrone soup that is both tasty and nourishing!
